YourBeautyClosett

FIRST TIME HAIR EXTENSION WEARER? DON'T FRET! FOLLOW THESE EASY TIPS TO PICK THE RIGHT SET FOR YOU!

If you’ve ever seen a celebrity sporting a long bob one week and rocking waist-length tresses a few weeks later, you’ve witnessed the magic of hair extensions. You too, can channel your inner Rapunzel and add inches and volume to your locks without the hassle (and heaps of patience) that come with growing it out. To help you decide which type of hair extension is right for you, we spoke with Riqua Hailes, owner and founder of Just Extensions salon in Los Angeles. She gave us the full lowdown on extensions and breakdown of the six techniques most requested in her salon.

Extensions 101: Advice for First-Timers

If you’re a first-time extension wearer, Hailes recommends you invest in high-quality, virgin human hair. “It may be expensive, but it’s worth it because it lasts longer and typically doesn’t tangle or mat,” she says. But be certain on the length you want before you buy; the longer the hair extension, the more expensive.

As for caring for extensions, Hailes explains that you don’t need to wash them daily. Instead, lather up only when you need to. “The more you wash the extensions with everyday shampoos, the faster they'll dry out,” she says. Hailes recommends using a shampoo and conditioner specifically designed for hair extensions, such as KeraCare Gentle Cleansing Shampoo. After you wash your hair, run a wide-tooth comb through your tresses to prevent tangles. It's also best to let extensions to air dry whenever possible. The less heat and styling products you use, the longer the shelf life of your extensions. To prevent matting, Hailes advises you avoid sleeping in wet extensions, and braid your hair or wear a bonnet at night.

Cost Key$ = less than $100
$$ = between $100–$200
$$$ = more than $200